1.07.2014

Sketching: Paper vs. Digital

When I was in art class as a kid and even in college, sketching was "the boring part". I couldn't wait to finish drawing with pencil so I could use the pens, colored pencils and paint that would come later! Now that I'm doing art on my own and outside of a structured environment, I see what my teachers and professors were talking about... it's important to start with a good base sketch before adding color. Plus, now it's FUN!

Sometimes I am hired to sketch images for a an upcoming event or to show an idea for a painting and although I still can't wait to dive into the actual project, making my plans through a sketch always helps! I have always used a light pencil with a textured paper to do sketches. Then if necessary, I would use colored pencils to add shading and show the color palette. I've recently discovered that I can do sketching through my iPad as well! Which do I like better? Well...

Paper Sketching:

PROS:
- I love the feel of a pencil in hand and tactile paper
- Softer look and feel
- I have more experience with this medium

PROS:
-Your tablet has all of the supplies you need! (plus your finger or stylus)
- Easily save, share and get responses from clients or friends
- More easily make changes with a quick erase!
- Takes up less space

CONS:
- Could show different shades of colors on screen or in print-out when shared
- No actual paper texture or tactile feeling
- Loss of softness and "character" in some cases
- I've got less experience with this medium

I like each of these formats for sketching and I plan to continue using each of them for their strengths! Recently I sent a digital sketch for quick approval (see above) and sketched a couple of quick ideas for the next two pairs of Toms I'll be painting! I'm really enjoying learning this new technique and if you have a custom painting coming up, I may be sending YOU digital sketches!

If you'd like to try out digital sketching, I recommend the app Paper 53! It's been amazing and I love using all of the extra elements like the paint blender and watercolor brush! This video sold me on it right away...